James, Lavinia
Maiden Name
Rowe
Death
1851-11-25
Gravestone
Location
NE.26.1
Biography
from Mary Knudson:
James James, retired farmer, is a native of Cornwall, England. He was born Feb 10, 1815. He emigrated to the U. S. He arrived in New York April 2, 1840. He came directly to Wisconsin on April 10, 1840. He engaged in mining at Wiota. The first winter he lived in a cabin near Shullsburg. He could see the stars through the roof. He continued mining until 1848, then went farming in the town of Waldwick. In 1852 he started to California and returned in September 1855. He engaged in farming until four years ago when he moved to the city. In 1836 Mr. James married Lavinia Rowe, who was a native of Cornwall, England. She died November 29, 1851. Mr. James then married Mrs. Mary Rees (Reese?) Aug. 23, 2856, leaving one son, William J., living in LaFayette County. She had married James Reese and the son belonged to them. Mr. James has had eleven children, four of whom survive—Susannah, married and living in Nebraska ; Richard, living on the home farm; James D., engaged in business in this city; Joseph H., engaged in business in Sac City, Iowa.
When Mr. James arrived in Galena he only had 2 cents in his pocket; his success in life is owing to his own efforts; he owns two good farms, besides other property.
Page 868 History of Iowa County